This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Touring the Everglades mangrove tunnels; kayaking or canoeing down Crystal River; exploring unique habitats along St. Mark's river outlet in Wakulla Springs State Park; 9-mile paddle on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail at Big Bend National Park. Learn More: How much is it to go kayaking? 2. Weeki Wachee Lake, Apalachicola River Paddling Trail and Suwanee River Wilderness Trail are some of the best Kayaking trails In Florida. And dont forget your camera! Hiking Safely in Florida | Dogs | Florida Hikes The way the land is situated is quite unique. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. That's where we come in. Weeki Wachee Springs. There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. Noble Hammock is a must-visit if you want to experience the best kayaking in Miami. Suwannee River Wilderness. 00:58 - Source: CNN. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. >> the tail went on our kayak. If this is not a sight to behold, tell me what is. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . You could get traffic from glass-bottom boats with tourists. Learn More: What to wear bioluminescent kayaking? In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? - windpaddle.com If you're looking for the best non-swampy places to kayak in Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. Ginnie Springs. Visual journalist Amanda Inscore added Class Pass to our list. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. >> oh my goodness. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. Do Alligators Bother Kayakers In Florida? [Safety Tips] The Manatee River runs along the gulf coast of Florida, and it includes expansive waterways of 46 miles. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Never let your children stick their arms out in the water, especially when you are heading in unfamiliar locations. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Baker said she immediately showed the video to a park ranger. Although Florida is known for its alligators, there are plenty of places in the sunshine state that offer paddling opportunities without the fear of coming face-to-face with one. Where to kayak in florida without alligators? - cgaa.org So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Fun Outdoor Ventures is owned and operated by Susan and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. Plus since most of its banks are also lined with wetlands so full visibility helps keep away any potential danger due to hidden predators like alligators too! Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Finally don't forget Florida's famed natural springs! Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Tampa Bay, Crystal River & Spring Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Fort De Soto County Park are some of the best places to kayak in Florida. . Thank you! There is plenty of wildlife around here that includes birds, turtles, fish, and maybe even a few otters which makes it an exciting (and safe!) Where can you kayak in Florida without alligators? this is why I only kayak in my bathtub. : r/watchpeoplesurvive - reddit This river is easily navigable on your own, but you will have a more informative trip if you decide to take one of the guided tours. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. Don't poke it with your paddle. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! However, there are some amazing places to visit where you can still enjoy your time on the water while feeling secure in your safety. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. Kayaking and Canoeing with Alligators - Is it safe? - Car and Tent Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach. First and foremost is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida. You can even get out of your kayaks and hike around the parks and trails scattered throughout the area. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. Alligators are still a common sight in Florida for everyone who has ever visited or lived there. Ichetucknee offers some of the clearest and most beautiful spring fed rivers and lakes in all of Northern Florida. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. Skip the wetlands parks, the swamp walks, and the mangrove tunnels. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Manage Settings Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. The 12 Best Places to Kayak in Florida For a Perfect Paddle! Can You Kayak To Keewaydin Island? - Kayakaa - Just Go! Just maintain a safe distance - 10 feet is the bare minimum. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. Exploring Florida's Magical Mangrove Tunnels You should take the following precautions in case of an encounter: If you plan on kayaking in alligator-infested waters, you should ensure not to bring your dog. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. time to kayak out of the area into safety. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. The kayak run is for advanced kayakers and adventure seekers only. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. It would be best to move away immediately upon hearing any of these sounds. However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. . An alligator slammed into the side of a kayak, tipping the boater into That sounds like a fun activity, kayaking in the evening and then camping at night with your friends. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators : r/PonzoBlogs It is advised that you take a shuttle back to the starting point; however, you know how much you can handle so you can paddle back if you can. General Parking for Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park located at 205 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. It is slow-moving and has sandbars along for stops when you need a rest. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. The water levels fluctuate a lot, and you need to be sure that it is neither too high nor too low for you to handle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',645,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_8',645,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-medrectangle-4-0_1');.medrectangle-4-multi-645{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Through their spatial data system, visitors can find specific bodies of water with features like depth contours and boat launches or ramps as part of their database. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Shoal River. Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. This 500-acre park offers lots of open spaces as well as access to scenic parts of the Cat Fish Creek Nature Trail and Seminole Wilderness Area with impressive views along the way. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Plus, the natural beauty of cypress trees and limestone formations spotted throughout your journey make this experience worth it alone. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Is kayaking in Florida your first time, and you're looking for a place where you won't have to worry about getting into trouble? The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. There is something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the crystal clear springs, tour through peaceful mangroves, or experience the tranquility of paddling around a remote island, non-swampy locations abound across Florida's many waterways. April 7, 2022. Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. 7 The St. Johns River. Kayaking these scenic spots will imprint beautiful memories into every adventurers mind forever! For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. One of the best non-swampy destinations is located in North Central Florida--Ichetucknee Springs State Park. The male alligator 11 feet, 10 inches long was shot in the head one evening near dusk last month by a trapper contracted . - Just Go! Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. 15 Things You Didn't Know About Alligators In Florida - TheTravel Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. The crystal clear blue waters offer views usually only seen by snorkelers with matchless visibility making sighting sea life like turtles amazingly easy during routine paddle trips fascinating any beginner into a whole new world beneath their glass-bottom boats! The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile Kayaking trail located in Southwest Florida that follows the coastline of Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? (Quick Facts) The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The water temperature is constantly 72 degrees throughout the year, perfect for kayaking and swimming when allowed. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). They will hide near the edge where there are bushes that they can use as cover, so you may not even see them. There are some measures that increase safety, which we will discuss. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. By Cary Hardy May 31, 2022. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. Essential Tips to Follow. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. This will put you and your dog in more danger.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'kayakspoint_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-banner-1-0'); You should try to keep a distance of at least 30 feet if you can.